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Vladimir Putin’s forces have made further gains in at least three locations along the eastern front in Ukraine – including for the first time in several months an advance in the northern Kharkiv region – again highlighting Kyiv’s need for ammunition and weapons from the United States and other allies. Russia’s tactical advances are now daily and reflect the new tempo on the battlefield since the fall of the industrial town of Avdiivka in February. Is Russia gaining tempo ahead of the arrival of U.S. weapons? WION's Shivan Chanana discusses with Dr. Sergey Markov, former spokesman for Russian president Putin, former member of the Russian parliament and director of the institute of political studies and Russian political scientist

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<p>US&nbsp;intelligence agencies have said that Russian President Vladimir Putin probably did not personally order the killing of opposition leader Alexei Navalny at an Arctic prison camp in February, as reported by the Wall Street Journal on Saturday (April 27).</p>

<p>Navalny, aged 47 at the time of his death, was known as one of Putin's most vocal&nbsp;critics within Russia. His allies, who have been labelled extremists by authorities, have accused Putin of orchestrating Navalny's killing&nbsp;and have said they would&nbsp;present evidence to support their accusation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kremlin has refuted any state involvement, with Putin describing Navalny's death as "sad" last month and expressing willingness to exchange the jailed politician with the West, on the condition that Navalny would not return to Russia.</p>

<p>Navalny's associates claimed discussions about such an exchange had been ongoing. According to unnamed sources familiar with the situation, as reported by The Wall Street Journal, US&nbsp;intelligence agencies have determined that Putin likely did not give the order to have Navalny killed in February.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/navalnys-retaliation-hackers-allegedly-breach-massive-russian-prisoner-database-706571">Also read |&nbsp;Navalny’s retaliation? Hackers allegedly breach massive Russian prisoner database</a></p>

<p>While Washington hasn't fully cleared Putin of responsibility for Navalny's death, it acknowledges Navalny was targeted by Russian authorities for years, jailed on what the West sees as politically motivated charges, and poisoned with a nerve agent in 2020. The Kremlin has denied&nbsp;involvement in the poisoning.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, responding to the Journal's report, called it&nbsp;"empty speculation".</p>

<p>"I've seen the material, I wouldn't say it's high quality material that deserves attention," Peskov told reporters when asked about the matter.</p>

<p>The US&nbsp;evaluation considered various sources, including classified intel and public facts like the timing of Navalny's death, which coincided with Putin's reelection in March, according to sources cited by the paper. Leonid Volkov, a top aide to Navalny, dismissed the US&nbsp;findings as naive and absurd.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-navalnys-death-wife-of-another-putin-critic-fears-for-his-safety-704122">Also read |&nbsp;After Navalny’s death, wife of another Putin critic fears for his safety</a></p>

<h2><strong>What we know of Navalny's death&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Several days after the initial report of Alexei Navalny's death, there is still&nbsp;lack of information regarding the circumstances surrounding his death.</p>

<p>According to Russian reports, the 47-year-old went for a brief walk at his Siberian penal colony, complained of feeling unwell, and subsequently collapsed without regaining consciousness.</p>

<p>Navalny's family confirmed that the political activist passed away at 14:17 local time (09:17 GMT) on Friday, February 16.</p>

<p>The prison authorities where he was detained claimed he experienced "sudden death syndrome," as reported by his team.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


US intelligence agencies have said that Russian President Vladimir Putin probably did not personally order the killing of opposition leader Alexei Navalny at an Arctic prison camp in February, as reported by the Wall Street Journal on Saturday (April 27).

US intelligence agencies have said that Russian President Vladimir Putin probably did not personally order the killing of opposition leader Alexei Navalny at an Arctic prison camp in February, as reported by the Wall Street Journal on Saturday (April 27). Navalny, aged 47 at the time of his death, was known as one of Putin's most vocal critics within Russia. His allies, who have been labelled extremists by authorities, have accused Putin of orchestrating Navalny's killing and have said they would present evidence to support their accusation. The Kremlin has refuted any state involvement, with Putin describing Navalny's death as "sad" last month and expressing willingness to exchange the jailed politician with the West, on the condition that Navalny would not return to Russia. Navalny's associates claimed discussions about such an exchange had been ongoing. According to unnamed sources familiar with the situation, as reported by The Wall Street Journal, US intelligence agencies have determined that Putin likely did not give the order to have Navalny killed in February. Also read | Navalny’s retaliation? Hackers allegedly breach massive Russian prisoner database While Washington hasn't fully cleared Putin of responsibility for Navalny's death, it acknowledges Navalny was targeted by Russian authorities for years, jailed on what the West sees as politically motivated charges, and poisoned with a nerve agent in 2020. The Kremlin has denied involvement in the poisoning. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, responding to the Journal's report, called it "empty speculation". "I've seen the material, I wouldn't say it's high quality material that deserves attention," Peskov told reporters when asked about the matter. The US evaluation considered various sources, including classified intel and public facts like the timing of Navalny's death, which coincided with Putin's reelection in March, according to sources cited by the paper. Leonid Volkov, a top aide to Navalny, dismissed the US findings as naive and absurd. Also read | After Navalny’s death, wife of another Putin critic fears for his safety What we know of Navalny's death Several days after the initial report of Alexei Navalny's death, there is still lack of information regarding the circumstances surrounding his death. According to Russian reports, the 47-year-old went for a brief walk at his Siberian penal colony, complained of feeling unwell, and subsequently collapsed without regaining consciousness. Navalny's family confirmed that the political activist passed away at 14:17 local time (09:17 GMT) on Friday, February 16. The prison authorities where he was detained claimed he experienced "sudden death syndrome," as reported by his team. (With inputs from agencies)

US intel suggests Putin unlikely to have ordered Navalny's killing: Report

<p>British politician Tim Loughton has said that he was detained and deported from the Eastern African country of&nbsp;Djibouti earlier in April due to his criticism of China. Djibouti has close ties with China&nbsp;and has received billions of dollars of investment from Beijing.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Loughton,&nbsp;a Tory MP, is one of the seven parliamentarians sanctioned by Beijing in 2021 over what it called the spreading of lies and disinformation about human rights abuses in Xinjiang.</p>

<p>According to a report by The Telegraph on Sunday (Apr 28),&nbsp;Loughton, 61, was in&nbsp;Djibouti on April 8 for a 24-hour visit including meeting the British ambassador. However, the Tory MP told The Telegraph that he was detained for over seven hours at the airport,&nbsp;barred entry to the country and told he was being removed on the next available flight.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-charged-in-uk-for-spying-for-china-breaching-official-secrets-act-713940">Two men in UK charged with spying for China, breaching&nbsp;Official Secrets Act</a></strong></p>

<p>Reacting to the detention and deportation,&nbsp;Loughton said this was the latest example of&nbsp; intimidation that the seven sanctioned parliamentarians have suffered over the last three years.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened at the airport?</strong></h2>

<p>Loughton said that he arrived at the airport in Djibouti at midday, and like other travellers, was preparing to collect his visa.&nbsp;“As soon as I revealed I was a British MP, and my passport was checked, things turned decidedly frosty,” the 61-year-old said.</p>

<p>Loughton added that he was held for an hour without any explanation in the arrivals hall after all the other travellers sailed through border control. The Tory MP was then taken into a holding room where he was locked in and detained alone for three hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A delegation of three officers, including the head of the border immigration service, told him that he would not be allowed into&nbsp;Djibouti, and would be&nbsp;put on the next plane out of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch | UK PM&nbsp;Rishi Sunak under fire, govt least transparent in 25 years</strong></p>

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<p>He was escorted across the airport tarmac to wait in the departure lounge for an evening flight to Dubai.&nbsp;Loughton also said that he was not given a reason for his detention and deportation.</p>

<h2><strong>China reacts</strong></h2>

<p>A spokesperson from the Chinese embassy (in&nbsp;Djibouti) said that the allegations that Loughton was detained due to his criticism of China were purely baseless, The Telegraph further reported on Sunday.</p>

<p>The spokesperson said that the allegations were fabricated and slanderous rhetoric that attempts to smear China and damage&nbsp;Beijing-London relations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


British politician Tim Loughton has said that he was detained and deported from the Eastern African country of Djibouti earlier in April due to his criticism of China.

British politician Tim Loughton has said that he was detained and deported from the Eastern African country of Djibouti earlier in April due to his criticism of China. Djibouti has close ties with China and has received billions of dollars of investment from Beijing. Loughton, a Tory MP, is one of the seven parliamentarians sanctioned by Beijing in 2021 over what it called the spreading of lies and disinformation about human rights abuses in Xinjiang. According to a report by The Telegraph on Sunday (Apr 28), Loughton, 61, was in Djibouti on April 8 for a 24-hour visit including meeting the British ambassador. However, the Tory MP told The Telegraph that he was detained for over seven hours at the airport, barred entry to the country and told he was being removed on the next available flight. Also read | Two men in UK charged with spying for China, breaching Official Secrets Act Reacting to the detention and deportation, Loughton said this was the latest example of intimidation that the seven sanctioned parliamentarians have suffered over the last three years. What happened at the airport? Loughton said that he arrived at the airport in Djibouti at midday, and like other travellers, was preparing to collect his visa. “As soon as I revealed I was a British MP, and my passport was checked, things turned decidedly frosty,” the 61-year-old said. Loughton added that he was held for an hour without any explanation in the arrivals hall after all the other travellers sailed through border control. The Tory MP was then taken into a holding room where he was locked in and detained alone for three hours. A delegation of three officers, including the head of the border immigration service, told him that he would not be allowed into Djibouti, and would be put on the next plane out of the country. Also watch | UK PM Rishi Sunak under fire, govt least transparent in 25 years × He was escorted across the airport tarmac to wait in the departure lounge for an evening flight to Dubai. Loughton also said that he was not given a reason for his detention and deportation. China reacts A spokesperson from the Chinese embassy (in Djibouti) said that the allegations that Loughton was detained due to his criticism of China were purely baseless, The Telegraph further reported on Sunday. The spokesperson said that the allegations were fabricated and slanderous rhetoric that attempts to smear China and damage Beijing-London relations. (With inputs from agencies)

British politician Tim Loughton says he was deported from Djibouti due to his criticism of China

<p>Iraqi social media sensation Ghufran Sawadi, known as Umm Fahad, met a tragic end as she was shot dead outside her residence in Baghdad on Friday (Apr 26) night, media reports said citing sources.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sawadi gained popularity on TikTok, where she shared videos showcasing her dancing skills to popular music. In those videos, she was often seen wearing figure-hugging attire.&nbsp;Iraq's judiciary earlier sentenced her to a six-month prison sentence for violating public decency and morals.</p>

<p>Iraq has laws and regulations that prohibit the dissemination of content deemed to contain obscene or indecent language, particularly those that violate public decency and morals.</p>

<p>These laws are often enforced by government authorities and can result in legal action against individuals or organisations that produce or distribute such content.</p>

<p>The attack took place in the Zayouna area of eastern Baghdad and was captured on surveillance video. The footage of the horrific crime was circulated on social media platforms as well.</p>

<p>The footage depicted a gunman riding a motorcycle&nbsp;fatally shooting&nbsp;Sawadi on the spot. Confirmation of the video's authenticity was provided by a Baghdad police source to a western media outlet.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-sends-troops-to-eastern-ukraine-in-a-bid-to-reinforce-offensive-715747">Russia sends troops to eastern Ukraine in a bid to reinforce offensive</a></p>

<p>After this incident, the Interior Minister announced the formation of a specialised team to investigate the circumstances surrounding Sawadi's killing.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-indian-women-dies-in-us-after-car-crashes-into-trees-in-devastating-accident-715733">Three Indian women die in US after car crashes into trees in devastating accident</a></p>

<p>This tragic incident is not an isolated case, as other social media influencers in Iraq have also fallen victim to deadly attacks.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-team-from-mediator-egypt-in-israel-for-gaza-truce-talks-715745">Israel-Hamas War: Team from mediator Egypt in Israel for Gaza truce talks</a></strong></p>

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<p>Notably, another social media star, Noor Alsaffar, known as Noor BM, was fatally shot in Baghdad in September 2023. Alsaffar, with a substantial following on Instagram and TikTok, shared content primarily focused on fashion and dancing.</p>

<p>While many mourned Alsaffar's death, some disturbingly celebrated the perpetrator of the crime. Given the conservative cultural and religious values prevalent in Iraqi society, there is often a low tolerance for content that is seen as offensive or contrary to these values. This includes not only explicit language but also material that may be considered morally objectionable or contrary to Islamic principles.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Iraqi social media sensation Ghufran Sawadi, known as Umm Fahad, met a tragic end as she was shot dead outside her residence in Baghdad on Friday (Apr 26) night, media reports said citing sources.

Iraqi social media sensation Ghufran Sawadi, known as Umm Fahad, met a tragic end as she was shot dead outside her residence in Baghdad on Friday (Apr 26) night, media reports said citing sources. Sawadi gained popularity on TikTok, where she shared videos showcasing her dancing skills to popular music. In those videos, she was often seen wearing figure-hugging attire. Iraq's judiciary earlier sentenced her to a six-month prison sentence for violating public decency and morals. Iraq has laws and regulations that prohibit the dissemination of content deemed to contain obscene or indecent language, particularly those that violate public decency and morals. These laws are often enforced by government authorities and can result in legal action against individuals or organisations that produce or distribute such content. The attack took place in the Zayouna area of eastern Baghdad and was captured on surveillance video. The footage of the horrific crime was circulated on social media platforms as well. The footage depicted a gunman riding a motorcycle fatally shooting Sawadi on the spot. Confirmation of the video's authenticity was provided by a Baghdad police source to a western media outlet. Also Read | Russia sends troops to eastern Ukraine in a bid to reinforce offensive After this incident, the Interior Minister announced the formation of a specialised team to investigate the circumstances surrounding Sawadi's killing. Also Read | Three Indian women die in US after car crashes into trees in devastating accident This tragic incident is not an isolated case, as other social media influencers in Iraq have also fallen victim to deadly attacks. Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Team from mediator Egypt in Israel for Gaza truce talks × Notably, another social media star, Noor Alsaffar, known as Noor BM, was fatally shot in Baghdad in September 2023. Alsaffar, with a substantial following on Instagram and TikTok, shared content primarily focused on fashion and dancing. While many mourned Alsaffar's death, some disturbingly celebrated the perpetrator of the crime. Given the conservative cultural and religious values prevalent in Iraqi society, there is often a low tolerance for content that is seen as offensive or contrary to these values. This includes not only explicit language but also material that may be considered morally objectionable or contrary to Islamic principles. (With inputs from agencies)

Iraqi TikTok star Umm Fahad shot dead outside home amid controversy over dancing videos

<p>Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles, during his visit to the city of Lviv, announced a military aid package for Ukraine worth $100 million.</p>

<p>The aid package included short-range air defences, drones along with air-to-ground precision munitions coming separately.</p>

<p>While speaking at a press briefing with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Marles asserted that the military aid by Australia is one of the many contributions set to be made to Ukrainian armed forces in the coming months.</p>

<p>“Today we are announcing the next package of support for Ukraine totalling 100 million dollars. 50 million of that is dedicated to short-range air defence systems. 30 million, as the Prime Minister said, to the purchase of drones as part of Australia being a part of the drone coalition being led by the United Kingdom and Latvia,” Marles said.</p>

<p>"We understand that this will be an enduring conflict and we will be contributing more in the future because we are determined to stand side by side with Ukraine for as long as it takes for Ukraine to prevail," he added.</p>

<p>Australia, on April 17 announced that it would increase the defence spending by A$50.3 billion ($32 billion) in the next 10 years and also make changes in its weapons program emphasising more on missiles, drones and warships as it foresees the possibility of a Pacific conflict between China and the United States.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-houthis-claim-missile-strike-on-andromeda-star-oil-tanker-in-red-sea-715518">Yemen's Houthis claim missile strike on Andromeda Star oil tanker in Red Sea</a></p>

<h2><strong>Russia sends troops to eastern Ukraine in a bid to reinforce offensive</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Russia, in a bid to reinforce its offensive sent more troops to the eastern town of Ocheretyne.</p>

<p>However, Kyiv's forces, which hold most part of the village, expect the arms delivery by the United States to help them win the battle, said the Ukrainian military on Saturday (Apr 27).</p>

<p>Russian armed forces have so far gradually progressed towards the eastern front in over half a dozen villages after seizing the bastion town of Avdiivka in the month of February.</p>

<p>Fighting erupted in Ocheretyne on Saturday, however, Nazar Voloshyn, spokesman for the eastern command, said that the Ukrainian forces had the situation under control and hold two-thirds of the village.</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky calls for air defence systems&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Amid Russian advances, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday called for additional air defence systems to be sent to Kyiv in its fight against Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the start of a virtual meeting led by the United States on helping arm Ukraine, Zelensky said, "This year, Russian jets (have) already used more than 9,000 guided aerial bombs against Ukraine and we need the ability to shoot down the air combat aircraft so that they do not approach our positions and borders."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"While we were waiting for a decision on the American support, the Russian army managed to seize the initiative on the battlefield," Zelensky said.</p>

<p>"We can still now, not only stabilize the front but also move forward achieving our Ukrainian goals in the war," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</strong></em></p>

<p><em><strong>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</strong></em></p>


Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles, during his visit to the city of Lviv, announced a military aid package for Ukraine worth $100 million. The aid package included short-range air defences, drones along with air-to-ground precision munitions coming separately.

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles, during his visit to the city of Lviv, announced a military aid package for Ukraine worth $100 million. The aid package included short-range air defences, drones along with air-to-ground precision munitions coming separately. While speaking at a press briefing with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Marles asserted that the military aid by Australia is one of the many contributions set to be made to Ukrainian armed forces in the coming months. “Today we are announcing the next package of support for Ukraine totalling 100 million dollars. 50 million of that is dedicated to short-range air defence systems. 30 million, as the Prime Minister said, to the purchase of drones as part of Australia being a part of the drone coalition being led by the United Kingdom and Latvia,” Marles said. "We understand that this will be an enduring conflict and we will be contributing more in the future because we are determined to stand side by side with Ukraine for as long as it takes for Ukraine to prevail," he added. Australia, on April 17 announced that it would increase the defence spending by A$50.3 billion ($32 billion) in the next 10 years and also make changes in its weapons program emphasising more on missiles, drones and warships as it foresees the possibility of a Pacific conflict between China and the United States. Also read: Yemen's Houthis claim missile strike on Andromeda Star oil tanker in Red Sea Russia sends troops to eastern Ukraine in a bid to reinforce offensive Meanwhile, Russia, in a bid to reinforce its offensive sent more troops to the eastern town of Ocheretyne. However, Kyiv's forces, which hold most part of the village, expect the arms delivery by the United States to help them win the battle, said the Ukrainian military on Saturday (Apr 27). Russian armed forces have so far gradually progressed towards the eastern front in over half a dozen villages after seizing the bastion town of Avdiivka in the month of February. Fighting erupted in Ocheretyne on Saturday, however, Nazar Voloshyn, spokesman for the eastern command, said that the Ukrainian forces had the situation under control and hold two-thirds of the village. Zelensky calls for air defence systems Amid Russian advances, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday called for additional air defence systems to be sent to Kyiv in its fight against Moscow. At the start of a virtual meeting led by the United States on helping arm Ukraine, Zelensky said, "This year, Russian jets (have) already used more than 9,000 guided aerial bombs against Ukraine and we need the ability to shoot down the air combat aircraft so that they do not approach our positions and borders." "While we were waiting for a decision on the American support, the Russian army managed to seize the initiative on the battlefield," Zelensky said. "We can still now, not only stabilize the front but also move forward achieving our Ukrainian goals in the war," he added. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Australia announces $100 million military aid package for Ukraine

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<p>Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called domestic violence a&nbsp;"national crisis"&nbsp;as thousands of citizens took to the streets across the country to protest over violence against women.</p>

<p>"A&nbsp;national crisis demands a national response,"&nbsp;said Albanese on Monday (April 29),&nbsp;in a statement shared on social media platform X.</p>

<p>"That's&nbsp;why&nbsp;I'm&nbsp;bringing together National Cabinet on Wednesday morning to take action on violence against women,"&nbsp;he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-defence-minister-announces-100-million-military-aid-package-for-ukraine-715763">Australian Defence Minister announces $100 million military aid package for Ukraine</a></p>

<p>As per the reports, 27 women have lost their lives so far in Australia this year&nbsp;allegedly&nbsp;because of acts of&nbsp;gender-based violence.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Women in Australia deserve better, governments have to do better and as a society we have to do better.<br />
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That's why we'll be convening the National Cabinet with one issue on the agenda: immediate, meaningful and practical action to address family violence.</p>
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlboMP/status/1784464952419553740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A national crisis demands a national response.<br />
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That's why I'm bringing together National Cabinet on Wednesday morning to take action on violence against women. <a href="https://t.co/y8jlLHNUSL">pic.twitter.com/y8jlLHNUSL</a></p>
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlboMP/status/1784738422781067269?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"The fact that ... a woman dies every four days on average at the hand of a partner is just a national crisis,"&nbsp;said the prime&nbsp;minister, while speaking to Nine Network television.</p>

<h2><strong>People call for&nbsp;tougher&nbsp;laws on violence against&nbsp;women</strong></h2>

<p>Thousands of people participated in rallies organised in various Australian cities on Sunday (April 28) and appealed for&nbsp;tougher&nbsp;laws on violence against women.</p>

<p>In the capital city of Canberra, Albanese, his&nbsp;Women's&nbsp;Minister Katy Gallagher and Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth also tried to attend the protest when they received a hostile response.</p>

<p>The protesters also yelled at the government leaders,&nbsp;"We want action"&nbsp;and&nbsp;"Do your job."</p>

<p>Albanese added that there was a need to increase focus on perpetrators and&nbsp;prevention of violence.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Australia keeps China in sight, unveils new defence strategy</strong></p>

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<p>"Society and Australia must do better, We&nbsp;need to change the culture, we need to change attitudes, we need to change the legal system,"&nbsp;said Australian PM&nbsp;Albanese,&nbsp;at the No More rally&nbsp;which&nbsp;was&nbsp;organised&nbsp;by advocacy group What Were You Wearing.</p>

<p>“It’s&nbsp;not enough to support victims. We need to focus on the perpetrators, focus on prevention,"&nbsp;he added.</p>

<p>“We’re&nbsp;here today to demand that governments of all levels must do better, including my own, including every state and territory government.&nbsp;It’s&nbsp;up to men to change&nbsp;men’s&nbsp;behaviour as well,"&nbsp;Albanese said to the rally.</p>

<p>The prime minister on&nbsp;Monday (April 29) said that the rallies were a call&nbsp;for all levels of the Australian government to take more steps to prevent the&nbsp;violence.</p>

<p>"Women in Australia deserve better, governments have to do better&nbsp;and&nbsp;as a society we have to do better,"&nbsp;said Albanese on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called domestic violence a "national crisis" as thousands of citizens took to the streets across the country to protest over violence against women.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called domestic violence a "national crisis" as thousands of citizens took to the streets across the country to protest over violence against women. "A national crisis demands a national response," said Albanese on Monday (April 29), in a statement shared on social media platform X. "That's why I'm bringing together National Cabinet on Wednesday morning to take action on violence against women," he said. Also Read: Australian Defence Minister announces $100 million military aid package for Ukraine As per the reports, 27 women have lost their lives so far in Australia this year allegedly because of acts of gender-based violence. Women in Australia deserve better, governments have to do better and as a society we have to do better. That's why we'll be convening the National Cabinet with one issue on the agenda: immediate, meaningful and practical action to address family violence. — Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) April 28, 2024 × A national crisis demands a national response. That's why I'm bringing together National Cabinet on Wednesday morning to take action on violence against women. pic.twitter.com/y8jlLHNUSL — Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) April 29, 2024 × "The fact that ... a woman dies every four days on average at the hand of a partner is just a national crisis," said the prime minister, while speaking to Nine Network television. People call for tougher laws on violence against women Thousands of people participated in rallies organised in various Australian cities on Sunday (April 28) and appealed for tougher laws on violence against women. In the capital city of Canberra, Albanese, his Women's Minister Katy Gallagher and Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth also tried to attend the protest when they received a hostile response. The protesters also yelled at the government leaders, "We want action" and "Do your job." Albanese added that there was a need to increase focus on perpetrators and prevention of violence. Watch: Australia keeps China in sight, unveils new defence strategy "Society and Australia must do better, We need to change the culture, we need to change attitudes, we need to change the legal system," said Australian PM Albanese, at the No More rally which was organised by advocacy group What Were You Wearing. “It’s not enough to support victims. We need to focus on the perpetrators, focus on prevention," he added. “We’re here today to demand that governments of all levels must do better, including my own, including every state and territory government. It’s up to men to change men’s behaviour as well," Albanese said to the rally. The prime minister on Monday (April 29) said that the rallies were a call for all levels of the Australian government to take more steps to prevent the violence. "Women in Australia deserve better, governments have to do better and as a society we have to do better," said Albanese on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Australian PM Albanese calls domestic violence a national 'crisis' amid protests

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - ICC to issue arrest warrant against Bibi? - Xi on France state visit on May 6-7 - Strikes on Hezbollah posts: IDF - Scotland: First Minister Yousaf to quit? - UK: Tory rebels up heat on Sunak

Scotland: First Minister Yousaf to quit? | UK: Tory rebels up heat on Sunak

Protesters in Italy's Turin city have hit the streets and expressed their anger over the issue of Climate Crisis against world leaders ahead of the G7 summit.

Protests erupt in Italy as G7 ministers meet to discuss climate crisis

Chinese president Xi Jinping is set to embark on a tour of Europe. He will be visiting several countries on his first trip to the continent since the covid pandemic. As China looks for greater trade and strategic ties with the region. During the reported tour the Chinese leader will make stops in Hungary, Siberia and France. Watch in for more details!

China President Xi Jinping to visit France, Serbia & Hungary

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<p>The Israeli government is&nbsp;making efforts&nbsp;to block the International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrants against Prime Minister Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu,&nbsp;and other top officials, the Times of Israel reported on Sunday (Apr 28)&nbsp;citing&nbsp;sources. Israeli officials believe that the ICC has been preparing to issue these arrest warrants for officials on charges related to the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-air-strikes-on-rafah-killing-at-least-13-people-hours-before-ceasefire-talks-716049">Israel launches air strikes on Rafah killing at least 13 people, hours before ceasefire talks</a></strong></p>

<p>The report said that the country's National Security Council is leading the campaign (to head off the arrest warrants), adding the foreign ministry is also involved in the efforts. One of the sources told the publication that a&nbsp;major&nbsp;focus of the ICC allegations would be that Israel deliberately starved Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Netanyahu under unusual stress'</strong></h2>

<p>According to Israeli journalist and analyst&nbsp;Ben Caspit, Prime Minister Netanyahu has been under unusual stress over the feared arrest warrant against him and other top officials. Writing an article in the Walla News, Caspit said that Netanyahu was leading a non-stop push over the telephone to prevent an arrest warrant, focussed&nbsp;especially&nbsp;on the Joe Biden-led US administration.</p>

<p>Last Friday, the Israeli Prime Minister said in a post on Telegram that under his leadership, Israel would never accept any attempt by the ICC to undermine its&nbsp;basic&nbsp;right to defend&nbsp;itself.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes</strong></p>

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<p>Amid these developments, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said that his country expects the ICC to refrain from issuing arrest warrants. "If the orders are issued, they will harm the commanders and soldiers of the IDF and give a boost to the terrorist organisation Hamas and the radical Islamic axis led by Iran against which we are fighting," Katz said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>No end to conflict anytime soon</strong></h2>

<p>On&nbsp;October 7&nbsp;last year, Hamas militants launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, killing 1,200 people, mostly civilians. More than 200 people&nbsp;were taken&nbsp;as hostages by Hamas.</p>

<p>Israel retaliated hard in the Gaza Strip and has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians. More than 77,000 people have&nbsp;been injured&nbsp;in the war-torn region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Israeli government is making efforts to block the International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrants against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and other top officials, the Times of Israel reported on Sunday (Apr 28) citing sources.

The Israeli government is making efforts to block the International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrants against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and other top officials, the Times of Israel reported on Sunday (Apr 28) citing sources. Israeli officials believe that the ICC has been preparing to issue these arrest warrants for officials on charges related to the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Also read | Israel launches air strikes on Rafah killing at least 13 people, hours before ceasefire talks The report said that the country's National Security Council is leading the campaign (to head off the arrest warrants), adding the foreign ministry is also involved in the efforts. One of the sources told the publication that a major focus of the ICC allegations would be that Israel deliberately starved Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. 'Netanyahu under unusual stress' According to Israeli journalist and analyst Ben Caspit, Prime Minister Netanyahu has been under unusual stress over the feared arrest warrant against him and other top officials. Writing an article in the Walla News, Caspit said that Netanyahu was leading a non-stop push over the telephone to prevent an arrest warrant, focussed especially on the Joe Biden-led US administration. Last Friday, the Israeli Prime Minister said in a post on Telegram that under his leadership, Israel would never accept any attempt by the ICC to undermine its basic right to defend itself. Also watch | Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes × Amid these developments, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said that his country expects the ICC to refrain from issuing arrest warrants. "If the orders are issued, they will harm the commanders and soldiers of the IDF and give a boost to the terrorist organisation Hamas and the radical Islamic axis led by Iran against which we are fighting," Katz said in a statement. No end to conflict anytime soon On October 7 last year, Hamas militants launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, killing 1,200 people, mostly civilians. More than 200 people were taken as hostages by Hamas. Israel retaliated hard in the Gaza Strip and has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians. More than 77,000 people have been injured in the war-torn region. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israel making efforts to block ICC arrest warrants against Netanyahu and others, says report

<p>United States President Joe Biden did not hold back as he roasted his predecessor and rival for the upcoming presidential election Donald Trump, during the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner, on Saturday (Apr 27).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters gathered outside the venue chanting “shame on you” as Biden and Washington’s political and media elites arrived.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Sleepy Don’</strong></h2>

<p>The US president began the roast at the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner with multiple jokes directed at Trump including calling him “sleepy Don,” a reference to the nickname “sleepy Joe” that the former president had given Biden previously.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The gathering of hundreds of top journalists, politicians, and celebrities in Washington proved to be a good platform for the president ahead of the upcoming November elections, where he also&nbsp;admonished his Republican rival for his immaturity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The 2024 election is in full swing and, yes, age is an issue,” said Biden, 81, who is currently the oldest US president. He added, “I’m a grown man running against a six-year-old.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Age is the only thing we have in common. My vice president actually endorses me,” Biden said referring to Trump’s falling out with his former VP Mike Pence, who defied him and certified the results of the 2020 elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-put-up-giant-palestinian-flag-at-venue-of-bidens-white-house-event-715888">Protesters put up giant Palestinian flag at venue of Biden's White House event</a></strong></p>

<p>The US president also poked fun at Trump’s ongoing hush money trial where the former president was seen at the Manhattan courthouse day after day since it began on April 15. “Donald has had a few tough days lately. You might call it Stormy weather,” said Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The event, which is often referred to as Washington’s “nerd prom,” was hosted by Saturday Night Live (SNL) cast member Colin Jost.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On a serious note, Biden also offered some advice to the journalists gathered calling them to “rise up to the seriousness of the moment”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I’m sincerely not asking you to take sides,” said the US president. “I’m asking you to rise up to the seriousness of the moment. Move past the horse race numbers and the gotcha moments and the distractions, the sideshows that have come to dominate and sensationalize our politics, and focus on what's actually at stake.”</p>

<h2><strong>‘Really bad’</strong></h2>

<p>But it seems like Trump was less than amused by the jokes made at his expense as he took to his social media platform Truth Social and called the annual “really bad.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/around-100-pro-palestinian-protesters-detained-at-bostons-northeastern-university-as-police-clear-encampment-715764">More than 100 protesters detained at Boston's Northeastern University as police clear pro-Palestinian camp</a></strong></p>

<p>“The White House Correspondents’ Dinner was really bad. Colin Jost BOMBED, and Crooked Joe was an absolute disaster! Doesn’t get much worse than this!” the former president wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Shame on you!’</strong></h2>

<p>The annual dinner was also marked by hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters draped in the traditional Palestinian keffiyeh chanting “shame on you!” as Washington’s elites hurried inside for the dinner.</p>

<p>“Western media we see you, and all the horrors that you hide,” crowds chanted at one point, as per the Associated Press.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


United States President Joe Biden did not hold back as he roasted his predecessor and rival for the upcoming presidential election Donald Trump, during the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner, on Saturday (Apr 27).

United States President Joe Biden did not hold back as he roasted his predecessor and rival for the upcoming presidential election Donald Trump, during the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner, on Saturday (Apr 27). Meanwhile, hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters gathered outside the venue chanting “shame on you” as Biden and Washington’s political and media elites arrived. ‘Sleepy Don’ The US president began the roast at the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner with multiple jokes directed at Trump including calling him “sleepy Don,” a reference to the nickname “sleepy Joe” that the former president had given Biden previously. The gathering of hundreds of top journalists, politicians, and celebrities in Washington proved to be a good platform for the president ahead of the upcoming November elections, where he also admonished his Republican rival for his immaturity. “The 2024 election is in full swing and, yes, age is an issue,” said Biden, 81, who is currently the oldest US president. He added, “I’m a grown man running against a six-year-old.” “Age is the only thing we have in common. My vice president actually endorses me,” Biden said referring to Trump’s falling out with his former VP Mike Pence, who defied him and certified the results of the 2020 elections. Also Read | Protesters put up giant Palestinian flag at venue of Biden's White House event The US president also poked fun at Trump’s ongoing hush money trial where the former president was seen at the Manhattan courthouse day after day since it began on April 15. “Donald has had a few tough days lately. You might call it Stormy weather,” said Biden. The event, which is often referred to as Washington’s “nerd prom,” was hosted by Saturday Night Live (SNL) cast member Colin Jost. On a serious note, Biden also offered some advice to the journalists gathered calling them to “rise up to the seriousness of the moment”. “I’m sincerely not asking you to take sides,” said the US president. “I’m asking you to rise up to the seriousness of the moment. Move past the horse race numbers and the gotcha moments and the distractions, the sideshows that have come to dominate and sensationalize our politics, and focus on what's actually at stake.” ‘Really bad’ But it seems like Trump was less than amused by the jokes made at his expense as he took to his social media platform Truth Social and called the annual “really bad.” Also Read | More than 100 protesters detained at Boston's Northeastern University as police clear pro-Palestinian camp “The White House Correspondents’ Dinner was really bad. Colin Jost BOMBED, and Crooked Joe was an absolute disaster! Doesn’t get much worse than this!” the former president wrote. ‘Shame on you!’ The annual dinner was also marked by hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters draped in the traditional Palestinian keffiyeh chanting “shame on you!” as Washington’s elites hurried inside for the dinner. “Western media we see you, and all the horrors that you hide,” crowds chanted at one point, as per the Associated Press. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Grown man running against a 6-year-old’: Biden roasts Trump at White House correspondents’ dinner

Rishi Sunak is bracing for one of the most challenging weeks of is Premiership. The Tory rebels are potentially plotting to oust Sunak, if the local elections prove to be a disaster.

UK: Rishi Sunak braces for a challenging week of local elections

<p>Ukraine’s top commander, on Sunday (Apr 28) said that its troops were forced to fall back to new positions west of three villages on the eastern front where Russia has recently ramped up attacks and concentrated significant forces on several locations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a fresh plea calling on the international community to deliver more air defences, begin talks for Ukraine to become a part of the European Union, and for the war-torn country to join NATO.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Most difficult’</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement on Sunday, Ukraine’s Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi addressed the worsening situation of Kyiv’s forces on the country’s eastern front and also expressed hope that it can stabilise it once the United States delivers more weapons as a part of its $61 billion aid package approved this week.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US announces new Patriot missiles for&nbsp;Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>“The situation at the front has worsened,” said Syrskyi, in a post on Telegram. He described west of the occupied Ukrainian city Maryinka and northwest of Avdiivka, a town captured by the Russian forces after months of intense fighting in February, as “most difficult” areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian troops have now taken a new position in the west of the villages of Berdychi and Semenivka, both of which are north of Avdiivka, and Novomykhailivka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He noted that while Russian forces have generally “achieved certain tactical successes in these areas,” they could not “gain operational advantages.”</p>

<p>In a possibly concerning development, Syrskiy also said that the Ukrainian forces are also closely monitoring a build-up of Russian troops near Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Moscow claims to have captured village</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine’s top commander in his statement did not respond to Russia’s claims about Novobakhmutivka, another village near Berdychi, which the Russian defence ministry on Sunday, said its forces have captured.</p>

<p>“As the result of active operations, the ‘Centrer’ troop unit liberated the village of Novobakhmutivka in the Donetsk People’s Republic,” said the ministry in its daily briefing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The village is around 10 kilometres north of Avdiivka, the town which witnessed one of the bloodiest battles of the two-year conflict.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-netanyahu-review-hostage-release-talks-in-new-call-white-house-716046">Biden, Netanyahu review hostage-release talks in new call: White House</a></strong></p>

<p>According to reports, Russia has been slowly advancing since capturing the bastion town and has taken advantage of Ukrainian shortages of artillery shells and manpower.</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky issues fresh plea</strong></h2>

<p>In his nightly address on Sunday, the Ukrainian president also called for more air defence systems, particularly the Patriot system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky also said that he had spoken to US House Minority leader Hakeem Jeffries and thanked Congress for passing the $61 billion aid package.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We are still waiting for the supplies Ukraine was promised,” said the Ukrainian president, adding that Kyiv is “expecting those volumes and scope that can change the situation on the battlefield in Ukraine’s interests.”</p>

<p>Zelensky also said that Ukraine has met all the conditions set by the EU to begin the accession talks and now the 27-nation bloc “must meet its obligations.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the beginning of the Russian invasion, Ukraine has received strong backing from the European nations to join the bloc, but the process could take years.</p>

<p>About the entry to NATO, Zelensky said every country that shares common values and is ready to defend them “deserves an invitation to the alliance.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)<br />
<br />
<strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


Ukraine’s top commander, on Sunday (Apr 28) said that its troops were forced to fall back to new positions west of three villages on the eastern front where Russia has recently ramped up attacks and concentrated significant forces on several locations.

Ukraine’s top commander, on Sunday (Apr 28) said that its troops were forced to fall back to new positions west of three villages on the eastern front where Russia has recently ramped up attacks and concentrated significant forces on several locations. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a fresh plea calling on the international community to deliver more air defences, begin talks for Ukraine to become a part of the European Union, and for the war-torn country to join NATO. ‘Most difficult’ In a statement on Sunday, Ukraine’s Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi addressed the worsening situation of Kyiv’s forces on the country’s eastern front and also expressed hope that it can stabilise it once the United States delivers more weapons as a part of its $61 billion aid package approved this week. WATCH | US announces new Patriot missiles for Ukraine “The situation at the front has worsened,” said Syrskyi, in a post on Telegram. He described west of the occupied Ukrainian city Maryinka and northwest of Avdiivka, a town captured by the Russian forces after months of intense fighting in February, as “most difficult” areas. Ukrainian troops have now taken a new position in the west of the villages of Berdychi and Semenivka, both of which are north of Avdiivka, and Novomykhailivka. He noted that while Russian forces have generally “achieved certain tactical successes in these areas,” they could not “gain operational advantages.” In a possibly concerning development, Syrskiy also said that the Ukrainian forces are also closely monitoring a build-up of Russian troops near Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city. Moscow claims to have captured village Ukraine’s top commander in his statement did not respond to Russia’s claims about Novobakhmutivka, another village near Berdychi, which the Russian defence ministry on Sunday, said its forces have captured. “As the result of active operations, the ‘Centrer’ troop unit liberated the village of Novobakhmutivka in the Donetsk People’s Republic,” said the ministry in its daily briefing. The village is around 10 kilometres north of Avdiivka, the town which witnessed one of the bloodiest battles of the two-year conflict. Also Read | Biden, Netanyahu review hostage-release talks in new call: White House According to reports, Russia has been slowly advancing since capturing the bastion town and has taken advantage of Ukrainian shortages of artillery shells and manpower. Zelensky issues fresh plea In his nightly address on Sunday, the Ukrainian president also called for more air defence systems, particularly the Patriot system. Zelensky also said that he had spoken to US House Minority leader Hakeem Jeffries and thanked Congress for passing the $61 billion aid package. “We are still waiting for the supplies Ukraine was promised,” said the Ukrainian president, adding that Kyiv is “expecting those volumes and scope that can change the situation on the battlefield in Ukraine’s interests.” Zelensky also said that Ukraine has met all the conditions set by the EU to begin the accession talks and now the 27-nation bloc “must meet its obligations.” Since the beginning of the Russian invasion, Ukraine has received strong backing from the European nations to join the bloc, but the process could take years. About the entry to NATO, Zelensky said every country that shares common values and is ready to defend them “deserves an invitation to the alliance.” (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukrainian forces pull back from 3 villages on eastern front; Zelensky issues fresh plea

Due to the likelihood of street protests and attempts by pro-refugee groups to halt detentions, police in Scotland have been placed on high alert. Officers will oversee crowd management and public order instead of participating in the detentions.

UK: Home Office to hold asylum seekers in the UK as part of a surprise operation in Rwanda

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<p>Five people were killed, including an infant, and several others were injured in multiple wild tornadoes that created havoc in the central United States over the weekend.</p>

<p>The residents of Oklahoma and nearby Great Plains states woke up to scenes of ravage and devastation as reports emerged of closed highways,&nbsp;power blackouts and structural damage. Throughout Saturday&nbsp;night, 35 tornadoes destroyed the area.</p>

<p>The weather system carried 35 tornadoes from northern Texas and Oklahoma to Missouri on Sunday (April 28), after 78 tornadoes were reported mostly in Nebraska and Iowa on Friday (April 26) and levelled&nbsp;homes and buildings in six states, the National Weather Service (NWS) said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Catastrophic damage in Sulphur, Oklahoma, after an overnight tornado.<br />
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Sending my thoughts and prayers to this community, these tornados are devastating!<br />
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<a href="https://t.co/BP9Nu4mwvG">pic.twitter.com/BP9Nu4mwvG</a></p>
— Skyleigh Heinen-Uhrich (@Sky_Lee_1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sky_Lee_1/status/1784591290266538457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>In the storms, seven inches (18 centimetres) of rainfall was recorded within hours in some places and meteorologists issued warnings of extreme weather, which includes flash flooding, hail and more tornadoes.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-gorilla-hail-massive-storm-which-is-threatening-parts-of-united-states-699949">Get away from windows! 'Gorilla hail' threatens United States Midwest. What is it?</a></p>

<h2><strong>Oklahoma Governor declares 30-day state of emergency</strong></h2>

<p>In south-central Oklahoma, Sulphur was especially harshly hit late on Sunday (April 28) as images and videos shared on social media platforms showed multiple buildings ripped apart.</p>

<p>Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt, speaking at a press conference, said that the destruction in Sulphur, where one woman died because of the tornado, was the worst he had seen in his six years in office.</p>

<p>"It seems like every business in downtown has been destroyed now," the governor said, adding, "Thank goodness... there weren't a lot of people here at 10:30 at night."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Aerial views of the devastation in Sulphur, OK after a tornado tore through the town last night. Search and rescue still ongoing. Multiple tornadoes in Oklahoma last night with 2 reported fatalities in Holdenville at this time. Please keep the people impacted in your thoughts and… <a href="https://t.co/h8IizhEDto">pic.twitter.com/h8IizhEDto</a></p>
— Charles Peek (@CharlesPeekWX) <a href="https://twitter.com/CharlesPeekWX/status/1784660187036430479?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Definitely&nbsp;the most damage since I've been governor that I've seen. I've seen a lot of damage. I've been around the state for, this is my sixth year, but what I saw in downtown Sulphur is unbelievable," Stitt said.</p>

<p>The state's Department of Emergency Management (OEM) said that at least two people were killed in the Oklahoma town of Holdenville, as the local media reported a four-month-old baby also died.</p>

<p>According to OEM, a fourth person died on a highway in Marietta, where several battered cars&nbsp;were lying over each other and two semi-trucks had overturned.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US: Spring storm batters Northeast, heavy snow forecast | WION Climate Tracker</strong></p>

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<p>A man who was earlier reported to be&nbsp;injured in Iowa later died at the&nbsp;hospital, his family&nbsp;confirmed while speaking to local outlet KETV NewsWatch 7.</p>

<p>The National Weather Service stated in their preliminary investigation that the tornadoes which hit Sulphur and Marietta were at least EF-3 on the five-level Enhanced Fujita Scale.</p>

<p>Stitt announced a 30-day state of emergency for expediting aid to 12 counties which were the hardest hit and that he had connected with the federal authorities for assistance.</p>

<p>There was a power outage in more than 25,000 homes in Texas and more than 19,000 in Oklahoma, according to&nbsp;poweroutage.us.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Five people were killed, including an infant, and several others were injured in multiple wild tornadoes that created havoc in the central United States over the weekend.

Five people were killed, including an infant, and several others were injured in multiple wild tornadoes that created havoc in the central United States over the weekend. The residents of Oklahoma and nearby Great Plains states woke up to scenes of ravage and devastation as reports emerged of closed highways, power blackouts and structural damage. Throughout Saturday night, 35 tornadoes destroyed the area. The weather system carried 35 tornadoes from northern Texas and Oklahoma to Missouri on Sunday (April 28), after 78 tornadoes were reported mostly in Nebraska and Iowa on Friday (April 26) and levelled homes and buildings in six states, the National Weather Service (NWS) said. Catastrophic damage in Sulphur, Oklahoma, after an overnight tornado. Sending my thoughts and prayers to this community, these tornados are devastating! pic.twitter.com/BP9Nu4mwvG — Skyleigh Heinen-Uhrich (@Sky_Lee_1) April 28, 2024 × In the storms, seven inches (18 centimetres) of rainfall was recorded within hours in some places and meteorologists issued warnings of extreme weather, which includes flash flooding, hail and more tornadoes. Also Read: Get away from windows! 'Gorilla hail' threatens United States Midwest. What is it? Oklahoma Governor declares 30-day state of emergency In south-central Oklahoma, Sulphur was especially harshly hit late on Sunday (April 28) as images and videos shared on social media platforms showed multiple buildings ripped apart. Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt, speaking at a press conference, said that the destruction in Sulphur, where one woman died because of the tornado, was the worst he had seen in his six years in office. "It seems like every business in downtown has been destroyed now," the governor said, adding, "Thank goodness... there weren't a lot of people here at 10:30 at night." Aerial views of the devastation in Sulphur, OK after a tornado tore through the town last night. Search and rescue still ongoing. Multiple tornadoes in Oklahoma last night with 2 reported fatalities in Holdenville at this time. Please keep the people impacted in your thoughts and… pic.twitter.com/h8IizhEDto — Charles Peek (@CharlesPeekWX) April 28, 2024 × "Definitely the most damage since I've been governor that I've seen. I've seen a lot of damage. I've been around the state for, this is my sixth year, but what I saw in downtown Sulphur is unbelievable," Stitt said. The state's Department of Emergency Management (OEM) said that at least two people were killed in the Oklahoma town of Holdenville, as the local media reported a four-month-old baby also died. According to OEM, a fourth person died on a highway in Marietta, where several battered cars were lying over each other and two semi-trucks had overturned. Watch: US: Spring storm batters Northeast, heavy snow forecast | WION Climate Tracker A man who was earlier reported to be injured in Iowa later died at the hospital, his family confirmed while speaking to local outlet KETV NewsWatch 7. The National Weather Service stated in their preliminary investigation that the tornadoes which hit Sulphur and Marietta were at least EF-3 on the five-level Enhanced Fujita Scale. Stitt announced a 30-day state of emergency for expediting aid to 12 counties which were the hardest hit and that he had connected with the federal authorities for assistance. There was a power outage in more than 25,000 homes in Texas and more than 19,000 in Oklahoma, according to poweroutage.us. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Tornados hit Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, killing 5 including infant

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<p>In an unexpected move, anti-Israeli protesters hoisted a Palestinian flag at Harvard University at a spot which&nbsp;is generally reserved&nbsp;for flying the national flag of the United States as demonstrations continued to go out of control on the campus.</p>

<p>The shocking step was taken by three radical students on Saturday (April 27) as they raised the Palestinian flag over the iconic statue of John Harvard, where generally the Stars &amp; Stripes fly.</p>

<p>As per&nbsp;The Harvard Crimson,&nbsp;the flag-raising incident happened just after&nbsp;6:30 pm&nbsp;local time.&nbsp;In all,&nbsp;the students hoisted three flags at the campus, said the report.</p>

<p>“The flags raised by protesters over University Hall&nbsp;were removed&nbsp;by Harvard facilities staff,”&nbsp;said a&nbsp;spokesperson,&nbsp;while&nbsp;speaking to The New York Post.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Palestinian flag raised at Harvard University in place of the American flag.<br />
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Harvard has been conquered.<br />
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🎥 <a href="https://twitter.com/sfmcguire79?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sfmcguire79</a><br />
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<a href="https://t.co/zpRr7JFr7E">pic.twitter.com/zpRr7JFr7E</a></p>
— Oli London (@OliLondonTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/OliLondonTV/status/1784551288417419733?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>“The actions&nbsp;are a violation of&nbsp;University policy&nbsp;and&nbsp;the individuals involved will be subject to disciplinary action,"&nbsp;he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Netizens strongly react to the hoisting of Palestinian&nbsp;flags,&nbsp;call for armed&nbsp;intervention</strong></h2>

<p>Social media users strongly criticised the move of the protesters.&nbsp;“These pro-Hamas&nbsp;protesters’&nbsp;sole agenda is to eradicate every Western value and every basic human right while establishing an Islamic Sharia law regime,”&nbsp;said X user Mor Hogeg in a post.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-biden-sunle-azadi-slogans-raised-in-columbia-university-by-pro-palestine-protestors-713552"><strong>&nbsp;</strong>‘Biden sun le, Azadi’ slogans raised in Columbia University by pro-Palestine protesters</a></p>

<p>“They are starting with the Jews in Israel as their main objective and will continue with the entire west. It is not a fight of Israel against Hamas – the fight is between a culture of life and a culture of death. WAKE UP!"&nbsp;he added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, another emphasised the need for an armed intervention.</p>

<p>“This is where the National Guard needs to&nbsp;be called in. On the other hand, with our representatives in Congress waving Ukrainian flags,&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;not as if these young people have great role models,"&nbsp;Mark Isaacson wrote.</p>

<p>According to The Crimson, generally, the American flag flies at the flag pole, however, it also has flags of visiting foreign dignitaries displayed when they&nbsp;visit&nbsp;the campus.</p>

<p>It added that&nbsp;at the&nbsp;time&nbsp;no flag was flying on the&nbsp;pole,&nbsp;since the Stars &amp; Stripes is typically hoisted at&nbsp;7 am&nbsp;from Monday to Friday and is lowered at&nbsp;4 pm&nbsp;“for proper storage".</p>

<h2><strong>No lockdown or evictions, says Columbia&nbsp;University</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Columbia University&nbsp;rejected the rumours of mass evictions and campus lockdowns as the “tent city” demonstration continued.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Pro-Palestine Protests: Students at prestigious Paris university occupy campus building</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pro-palestine-protests-students-at-prestigious-paris-university-occupy-campus-building-715970/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“We want to be clear: There is no truth to claims of an impending lockdown or evictions on campus,” said the&nbsp;administration,&nbsp;in a statement Saturday (April 27).</p>

<p>The police arrested hundreds of anti-Israel protesters at college campuses across the country after fed-up administrators&nbsp;said, “enough is enough".</p>

<p>More than&nbsp;200 protesters were arrested on Saturday (April 27) from colleges, including&nbsp;Northeastern University in Boston, Arizona State University in Tempe, Indiana University in Bloomington and Washington University in St. Louis.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In an unexpected move, anti-Israeli protesters hoisted a Palestinian flag at Harvard University at a spot which is generally reserved for flying the national flag of the United States as demonstrations continued to go out of control on the campus.

In an unexpected move, anti-Israeli protesters hoisted a Palestinian flag at Harvard University at a spot which is generally reserved for flying the national flag of the United States as demonstrations continued to go out of control on the campus. The shocking step was taken by three radical students on Saturday (April 27) as they raised the Palestinian flag over the iconic statue of John Harvard, where generally the Stars & Stripes fly. As per The Harvard Crimson, the flag-raising incident happened just after 6:30 pm local time. In all, the students hoisted three flags at the campus, said the report. “The flags raised by protesters over University Hall were removed by Harvard facilities staff,” said a spokesperson, while speaking to The New York Post. Palestinian flag raised at Harvard University in place of the American flag. Harvard has been conquered. 🎥 @sfmcguire79 pic.twitter.com/zpRr7JFr7E — Oli London (@OliLondonTV) April 28, 2024 × “The actions are a violation of University policy and the individuals involved will be subject to disciplinary action," he added. Netizens strongly react to the hoisting of Palestinian flags, call for armed intervention Social media users strongly criticised the move of the protesters. “These pro-Hamas protesters’ sole agenda is to eradicate every Western value and every basic human right while establishing an Islamic Sharia law regime,” said X user Mor Hogeg in a post. Also Read: ‘Biden sun le, Azadi’ slogans raised in Columbia University by pro-Palestine protesters “They are starting with the Jews in Israel as their main objective and will continue with the entire west. It is not a fight of Israel against Hamas – the fight is between a culture of life and a culture of death. WAKE UP!" he added. Meanwhile, another emphasised the need for an armed intervention. “This is where the National Guard needs to be called in. On the other hand, with our representatives in Congress waving Ukrainian flags, it’s not as if these young people have great role models," Mark Isaacson wrote. According to The Crimson, generally, the American flag flies at the flag pole, however, it also has flags of visiting foreign dignitaries displayed when they visit the campus. It added that at the time no flag was flying on the pole, since the Stars & Stripes is typically hoisted at 7 am from Monday to Friday and is lowered at 4 pm “for proper storage". No lockdown or evictions, says Columbia University Meanwhile, Columbia University rejected the rumours of mass evictions and campus lockdowns as the “tent city” demonstration continued. Watch: Pro-Palestine Protests: Students at prestigious Paris university occupy campus building “We want to be clear: There is no truth to claims of an impending lockdown or evictions on campus,” said the administration, in a statement Saturday (April 27). The police arrested hundreds of anti-Israel protesters at college campuses across the country after fed-up administrators said, “enough is enough". More than 200 protesters were arrested on Saturday (April 27) from colleges, including Northeastern University in Boston, Arizona State University in Tempe, Indiana University in Bloomington and Washington University in St. Louis. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Harvard protests take an ugly turn as students fly Palestinian flag in place reserved for US flag

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidgEy8U1OSRHHP" />British Foreign Secretary David Cameron faces criticism after&nbsp;he travelled&nbsp;in a luxury private jet for a five-day diplomatic tour around Central Asia, British media reported on Sunday (Apr 28). Foreign Secretary Cameron hired the&nbsp;Embraer Lineage 1000 worth $52.6 million (around&nbsp;£42 million) for this tour. A report by Mirror on Sunday said that the private jet has a dining&nbsp;table,&nbsp;and&nbsp;extra-long&nbsp;sofas,&nbsp;and can accommodate 19 passengers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the tour, Cameron made stops&nbsp;in Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and Mongolia, with the government saying the foreign secretary wanted to increase&nbsp;engagement with this pivotal region.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-greensill-lobbying-scandal-which-overshadows-david-camerons-political-career-659572">Explained: What is Greensill lobbying scandal which overshadows David Cameron's political career?</a></strong></p>

<p>Cameron's&nbsp;predecessor&nbsp;James&nbsp;Cleverly&nbsp;used the same&nbsp;type of aircraft&nbsp;during a week-long tour of the Caribbean and Latin America last year.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The criticism: Acting like Kardashian sisters</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking to the Mirror, Labour MP&nbsp;Emily Thornberry said,&nbsp;"Sometimes, on a trip like this, ministers will need to use non-scheduled flights, and if the&nbsp;government's&nbsp;dedicated RAF jets are unavailable, they may have to charter a plane.&nbsp;That is all fine, but&nbsp;in no world&nbsp;do those circumstances&nbsp;justify hiring one of the most expensive, most luxurious private jets on the market to ferry the Foreign Secretary&nbsp;around Central Asia.&nbsp;"</p>

<p>Thornberry said&nbsp;that&nbsp;Cleverly&nbsp;was caught&nbsp;spending around $528,000 on the same&nbsp;type of jet.&nbsp;But instead of learning from that debacle, Cameron used it as a template, she added.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron concealing conflicts of interest with China?</strong></p>

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<p>"They are public servants, and&nbsp;they're&nbsp;supposed to use&nbsp;taxpayers'&nbsp;money as carefully as possible, not swan around the world like a pair of Kardashian sisters at the British&nbsp;public's&nbsp;expense,"&nbsp;the Labour MP&nbsp;further&nbsp;said.</p>

<h2><strong>Foreign office reacts</strong></h2>

<p>A foreign office spokesperson said that a foreign&nbsp;secretary's&nbsp;job (in this case&nbsp;David&nbsp;Cameron) requires him to travel overseas to pursue the United&nbsp;Kingdom's&nbsp;(UK) interests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This was the most time-effective way to do this in this instance.&nbsp;Value for&nbsp;money&nbsp;is taken&nbsp;into account in all travel decisions&nbsp;and&nbsp;costs&nbsp;are&nbsp;routinely published&nbsp;for transparency,”&nbsp;the office added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


British Foreign Secretary David Cameron faces criticism after he travelled in a luxury private jet for a five-day diplomatic tour around Central Asia, British media reported on Sunday (Apr 28).

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron faces criticism after he travelled in a luxury private jet for a five-day diplomatic tour around Central Asia, British media reported on Sunday (Apr 28). Foreign Secretary Cameron hired the Embraer Lineage 1000 worth $52.6 million (around £42 million) for this tour. A report by Mirror on Sunday said that the private jet has a dining table, and extra-long sofas, and can accommodate 19 passengers. During the tour, Cameron made stops in Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and Mongolia, with the government saying the foreign secretary wanted to increase engagement with this pivotal region. Also read | Explained: What is Greensill lobbying scandal which overshadows David Cameron's political career? Cameron's predecessor James Cleverly used the same type of aircraft during a week-long tour of the Caribbean and Latin America last year. The criticism: Acting like Kardashian sisters Speaking to the Mirror, Labour MP Emily Thornberry said, "Sometimes, on a trip like this, ministers will need to use non-scheduled flights, and if the government's dedicated RAF jets are unavailable, they may have to charter a plane. That is all fine, but in no world do those circumstances justify hiring one of the most expensive, most luxurious private jets on the market to ferry the Foreign Secretary around Central Asia. " Thornberry said that Cleverly was caught spending around $528,000 on the same type of jet. But instead of learning from that debacle, Cameron used it as a template, she added. Also watch | UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron concealing conflicts of interest with China? × "They are public servants, and they're supposed to use taxpayers' money as carefully as possible, not swan around the world like a pair of Kardashian sisters at the British public's expense," the Labour MP further said. Foreign office reacts A foreign office spokesperson said that a foreign secretary's job (in this case David Cameron) requires him to travel overseas to pursue the United Kingdom's (UK) interests. "This was the most time-effective way to do this in this instance. Value for money is taken into account in all travel decisions and costs are routinely published for transparency,” the office added. (With inputs from agencies)

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron criticised for hiring luxury jet for Central Asia tour: Report

<p>Republicans Donald Trump and Ron DeSantis are reportedly trying to mend their ties. The former president and Florida governor, as per reports, met privately on Sunday (Apr 28) morning in Miami. This meeting, as per the Washington Post, breaks a years-long chill between the two.</p>

<h2><strong>A potential détente</strong></h2>

<p>As per the report, the meeting was brokered by an ally who was hoping for a potential détente between the presumptive Republican nominee and his one-time chief primary rival.</p>

<p>The Washington Post reports that Steve Witkoff, a Florida real estate investor and developer known to both parties, was behind the meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-50-of-us-voters-dont-like-trump-for-president-but-more-would-prefer-him-over-biden-poll-716147">More than 50% of US voters don't like Trump for president, but more would prefer him over Biden: Poll</a></strong></p>

<p>Trump's advisers are reportedly hoping that peace between the two men would lead to DeSantis&nbsp;allowing them to tap into his donor network to help raise significant sums for the general election.</p>

<h2><strong>A success</strong></h2>

<p>Quoting people familiar with the matter, the Washington Post reports that Trump and DeSantis held talks for hours. The meeting "was friendly" and has reportedly resulted in the Florida governor agreeing to help Trump, who has lagged behind rival Joe Biden in the money chase.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For DeSantis, a closer relationship with Republican frontrunner Trump is an incentive as he eyes his political future. He had dropped out from the presidential race in January after a disappointing finish in the Iowa primaries.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/grown-man-running-against-a-6-year-old-biden-roasts-trump-at-white-house-correspondents-dinner-715995">‘Grown man running against a 6-year-old’: Biden roasts Trump at White House correspondents’ dinner</a></strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the time, he even released a video in which he endorsed Trump, saying, "It’s clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance."</p>

<p>"They watched his presidency get stymied by relentless resistance, and they see Democrats using lawfare to this day to attack him."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”<br />
<br />
- Winston Churchill <a href="https://t.co/ECoR8YeiMm">pic.twitter.com/ECoR8YeiMm</a></p>
— Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantis) <a href="https://twitter.com/RonDeSantis/status/1749159384112845285?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>As per the Post, even before the strained relations, the two men had never been particularly close. However, Trump had once viewed DeSantis as a rising star in the Republican Party and had endorsed him in 2018 for governor of Florida.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Republicans Donald Trump and Ron DeSantis are reportedly trying to mend their ties. The former president and Florida governor, as per reports, met privately on Sunday (Apr 28) morning in Miami.

Republicans Donald Trump and Ron DeSantis are reportedly trying to mend their ties. The former president and Florida governor, as per reports, met privately on Sunday (Apr 28) morning in Miami. This meeting, as per the Washington Post, breaks a years-long chill between the two. A potential détente As per the report, the meeting was brokered by an ally who was hoping for a potential détente between the presumptive Republican nominee and his one-time chief primary rival. The Washington Post reports that Steve Witkoff, a Florida real estate investor and developer known to both parties, was behind the meeting. Also read | More than 50% of US voters don't like Trump for president, but more would prefer him over Biden: Poll Trump's advisers are reportedly hoping that peace between the two men would lead to DeSantis allowing them to tap into his donor network to help raise significant sums for the general election. A success Quoting people familiar with the matter, the Washington Post reports that Trump and DeSantis held talks for hours. The meeting "was friendly" and has reportedly resulted in the Florida governor agreeing to help Trump, who has lagged behind rival Joe Biden in the money chase. For DeSantis, a closer relationship with Republican frontrunner Trump is an incentive as he eyes his political future. He had dropped out from the presidential race in January after a disappointing finish in the Iowa primaries. Also read | ‘Grown man running against a 6-year-old’: Biden roasts Trump at White House correspondents’ dinner At the time, he even released a video in which he endorsed Trump, saying, "It’s clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance." "They watched his presidency get stymied by relentless resistance, and they see Democrats using lawfare to this day to attack him." “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” - Winston Churchill pic.twitter.com/ECoR8YeiMm — Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantis) January 21, 2024 × As per the Post, even before the strained relations, the two men had never been particularly close. However, Trump had once viewed DeSantis as a rising star in the Republican Party and had endorsed him in 2018 for governor of Florida. (With inputs from agencies)

Years-long chill to end? Ron DeSantis and Donald Trump hold private talks in Miami

<p>Pope Francis will attend a working session on artificial intelligence at this year's Group of Seven (G7) leaders' summit that is set to take place in the month of June, said Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday (Apr 26).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The G7 leaders will hold discussions on the challenges posed by AI and ways to overcome the same.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is the first time in history that a pontiff will participate in the work of a G7," Meloni said in a video message.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She further said that Francis would join the "outreach session", dedicated to AI, for guest participants at the Group of Seven industrialised nations meeting in Puglia.</p>

<p>Calling artificial intelligence one of "the greatest anthropological challenges of our time", she said that it was "crucial to harness the best ethical and intellectual reflections being developed in this field".</p>

<p>She then expressed confidence that the pontiff's presence would "make a decisive contribution to defining a regulatory, ethical and cultural framework for artificial intelligence", appreciating the Vatican's research into the "practical application of the concept of algorethics, i.e. giving ethics to algorithms".</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/charles-to-return-to-some-public-duties-during-cancer-treatment-buckingham-palace-715466">Charles to return to some public duties during cancer treatment</a></p>

<p>"I am convinced that the presence of His Holiness will give a decisive contribution to drawing up an ethical and cultural regulatory framework to Artificial Intelligence," Meloni said.</p>

<p>Italy, which assumed the Presidency of the G7 in January 2024, okayed a bill earlier this week to lay down ground rules for the use of AI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"(It is) a technology that can generate great opportunities, but also brings enormous risks, as well as inevitably affecting global balances," Meloni said on Friday.</p>

<p>"Our commitment is to develop governance mechanisms to ensure that artificial intelligence is both human-centred and human-controlled," she added.</p>

<p>Earlier this year, the pope had cautioned against the "perverse" threats posed by AI calling for a global treaty to ensure the technology is not being misused.</p>

<p>He published a six-page message where he detailed all the dangers of this technology including disinformation and interference in elections.</p>

<p>The Group of Seven, also known as G7, brings together Italy, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pope Francis will attend a working session on artificial intelligence at this year's Group of Seven (G7) leaders' summit that is set to take place in the month of June, said Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday (Apr 26).

Pope Francis will attend a working session on artificial intelligence at this year's Group of Seven (G7) leaders' summit that is set to take place in the month of June, said Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday (Apr 26). The G7 leaders will hold discussions on the challenges posed by AI and ways to overcome the same. "This is the first time in history that a pontiff will participate in the work of a G7," Meloni said in a video message. She further said that Francis would join the "outreach session", dedicated to AI, for guest participants at the Group of Seven industrialised nations meeting in Puglia. Calling artificial intelligence one of "the greatest anthropological challenges of our time", she said that it was "crucial to harness the best ethical and intellectual reflections being developed in this field". She then expressed confidence that the pontiff's presence would "make a decisive contribution to defining a regulatory, ethical and cultural framework for artificial intelligence", appreciating the Vatican's research into the "practical application of the concept of algorethics, i.e. giving ethics to algorithms". Also read: Charles to return to some public duties during cancer treatment "I am convinced that the presence of His Holiness will give a decisive contribution to drawing up an ethical and cultural regulatory framework to Artificial Intelligence," Meloni said. Italy, which assumed the Presidency of the G7 in January 2024, okayed a bill earlier this week to lay down ground rules for the use of AI. "(It is) a technology that can generate great opportunities, but also brings enormous risks, as well as inevitably affecting global balances," Meloni said on Friday. "Our commitment is to develop governance mechanisms to ensure that artificial intelligence is both human-centred and human-controlled," she added. Earlier this year, the pope had cautioned against the "perverse" threats posed by AI calling for a global treaty to ensure the technology is not being misused. He published a six-page message where he detailed all the dangers of this technology including disinformation and interference in elections. The Group of Seven, also known as G7, brings together Italy, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. (With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis to attend AI session at G7 summit in Italy

Russia will display "war trophies" at the Moscow exhibition, including the Leopard MBT, Bradley IFV, and AMX-10 AFV. Plans to host an exhibition showcasing a variety of weaponry and military hardware taken by the Russian troops in Ukraine have been revealed by the Ministry of Defense in Russia.

Russia-Ukraine war: Kremlin to showcase captured western weapons in Moscow

Three members of a well-known Russian metal band have been arrested in the middle of a live concert with authorities charging them with displaying Nazi symbols.

Russia band members arrested mid-concert; member charged with displaying Nazi symbol

Will the International Criminal Court issue an arrest warrant against Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Israeli officials believe that the ICC could charge Netanyahu with violations related to the conflict with Hamas.

ICC to issue arrest warrant against Bibi? | International Court frowns on IDF assault

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